Written by Dawson La, Materials Science and Engineering (MEng)
Ten months ago, back in October 2022, I was overwhelmed with anxiety, uncertainty, and quite a bit of fear. I was on the verge of starting my first year in Materials Science and Engineering at Imperial College London, and the idea of immersing myself in something so new and uncharted was intimidating—particularly for someone who has always leaned towards being introverted. Reflecting on this past year, I realize it has been filled with personal development, obstacles, and memorable experiences. So, what insights have I gained, and what is my current position?
One of the most significant and daunting hurdles I encountered early on was building friendships. If you’re an incoming student, this may also be a concern for you. I recall my initial day in student housing—I spent the entirety of it in my room, too apprehensive to venture out and introduce myself. But fast forward to today, and I can assert that I’ve formed some of the most incredible friendships I’ve ever had. These individuals have come to feel like a second family to me. What made the difference? Simply initiating conversations with others who were feeling similarly. My key lesson: take that leap of faith early on. Even if you’re not entirely ready, there are plenty of ice-breakers and activities created to help you connect with others. And above all—just be yourself. Given the diverse student community, you’re sure to find individuals with shared interests and values.
Another significant adaptation was the academic workload. The transition from A-levels to university study was considerable, and the leap from the first to the second term was even more pronounced. It can be easy to feel inundated or to compare yourself to your peers and feel as though you’re lagging. However, one thing that assisted me was the realization that everyone is navigating the same shift. If you find yourself struggling with a concept, chances are others are too. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance—whether from friends or teaching staff. Learning to reach out and ask for support is likely the most crucial skill I acquired during my first year.
On the topic of support, the staff within the Materials department have been extraordinary. They truly care about the well-being and success of their students, and they’re consistently receptive to feedback and communication. I didn’t take full advantage of the pastoral support available until later in the year, but I wish I had done so earlier. One of the best choices I made was to become a year well-being representative. This role provided me the chance to collaborate closely with staff and gain a better grasp of the support systems established. There are numerous opportunities to connect with your lecturers and tutors, and doing so can profoundly enhance your university experience. My suggestion? Make full use of the support provided—you can never have too much help.
In summary, this year has shown me that the fears and uncertainties I experienced at the outset were perfectly normal, but not impossible to overcome. With the right support and a positive outlook, those feelings can be managed effectively. I’ve realized that I’m never genuinely alone, and that it’s feasible to relish university life—even amidst the pressures of exams and deadlines.
By Guest Blogger
Categorised under: Uncategorised
Tagged: Courses, Featured, First Year, Imperial College London